30 ABA Therapist Interview Questions (with Answers)

1.

When you suffer a setback with a patient, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?

Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with setbacks while working with a patient.

Rachelle's Answer

"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback I will take a few moments to debrief and discuss what I could have done differently, with a more seasoned behavioral therapist in the office. Then, I move forward with new treatment methods."

Rachelle's Answer

"If I were to experience a significant setback with a patient, I think that would be really difficult because you are so invested in your patients' progress. I would have to reassess my plan and then try, try again! Giving up is never an option."

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2.

How do you deal in uncomfortable situations?

Often, our work environment holds the possibility for awkward or tense situations. It can be difficult to know how to respond when you have a coworker who is moody, or when your coworker lacks social skills and constantly asks inappropriate questions. The interviewer wants to know that you can keep your cool in situations like these.

Rachelle's Answer

"I have had my share of awkward situations, and having raised 2 kids, I am no stranger to them! In the workplace, if an uncomfortable situation arises I tend to face the issue head on, but in a tactful way. Sweeping things under the rug rarely helps. I have no problem being open with my team or colleagues if I am not feeling comfortable in a particular situation."

Rachelle's Answer

"I try to avoid conflict, but I have a high tolerance for discomfort. I've learned to try to let the people in question sort it out, but have no problem rolling up my sleeves and diving in to help mediate the problem."

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3.

What are the types of differential reinforcement techniques?

Rewarding the desired behavior and ignoring the negative behavior is one of your go-to's as an ABA Therapist. The interviewer is looking for the textbook answer to this question but be sure to have an example in your back pocket if they want to know more.

Rachelle's Answer

"The four different types of differential reinforcement are differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior, alternative behavior, other behavior and differential reinforcement of low rates. I've found that encouraging teachers to use differential reinforcement of alternative behavior works best within the classroom setting."

Rachelle's Answer

"Great question! The four different types of differential reinforcement are differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior, alternative behavior, other behavior and differential reinforcement of low rates. I have used all 4 methods with a variety of students throughout my career; however, I tend to use alternative behavior reinforcement most often."

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4.

What do you like most about your current position?

As an ABA Therapist, what makes you want to go to work each day? Perhaps it is the team that you are a part of or, the excitement of a new case every day. Relay to the interviewer what you like best about your current role. Even if you need to dig deep, you should come up with something positive about your current position.

Rachelle's Answer

"In my current position, I work with a team of very talented therapists. I look forward to meeting the team here and building exciting new working relationships."

Rachelle's Answer

"The thing that I enjoy most about my current position is that I learn something new every day; whether from a patient or a fellow co-worker. I enjoy learning new skills, tools, and ways to treat my patients. I am very much looking forward to doing the same with your organization."

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5.

When have you had difficulty with a parent? How did you handle the situation?

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ABA Therapist Interview Questions

When you suffer a setback with a patient, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?

ABA Therapist Interview Questions

When you suffer a setback with a patient, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?

How do you deal in uncomfortable situations?

What are the types of differential reinforcement techniques?

What do you like most about your current position?

When have you had difficulty with a parent? How did you handle the situation?

Tell me about a time that a patient's behavior confused you, or didn't make sense. What did you do?

Tell me about your experience creating behavior intervention plans for autistic children.

What is your greatest weakness as an ABA Therapist?

How do you deal with work stress?

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

What are the four basic schedules of reinforcement?

What questions do you have for us?

What is one skill you would like to improve upon?

What are your salary expectations?

When have you worked among a diverse group of people?

Describe your working relationship with your previous or current colleagues.

Where do you see your career in 5 years?

Would you be willing to travel to various centers, schools, etc?

Tell me about an organization or group outside of work that you contributed to.

Why did you choose a career as an ABA Therapist?

When have you worked independently before? What challenges do you find when working independently?

What feeding therapy techniques have you used with your patients?

Do you have experience with one-on-one patient sessions?

What actions do you take to demonstrate care for your patients?

Explain to me what HIPAA is, and how that affects your job as an ABA Therapist.

What is your greatest strength as an ABA Therapist?

When you notice a child with aggressive behavior toward others, what type of intervention do you perform?

What type of certification do you have? Are there any additional certifications you are looking to obtain in the future?

What experience do you have working with children on the autism spectrum?

Do you have any volunteer experience related to working with children?